Small-Dose Behavioral Treatment Effects: Learning Following 2 Hours of Computer-Based Conversational Script Training...

Optimal dosage parameters are underspecified for aphasia therapy. This study evaluated effects of small doses of conversational script training in individuals with chronic poststroke aphasia.

Ten adults with chronic poststroke aphasia completed 2 hr of computerized conversational script training on two consecutive days via AphasiaScripts. Accuracy and rate of production of a trained and an untrained conversational script were probed at three baseline timepoints and various timepoints after the first and second treatment sessions up to 2 weeks posttreatment. Generalization in accuracy of trained script production was evaluated through a live conversational interaction. Mixed-effects linear regression models evaluated changes in accuracy and rate of script production across timepoints.

Participants showed significantly improved accuracy and rate of trained script production immediately following 1 and 2 hr of treatment. Gains in script production accuracy and rate were maintained up to 1 week posttreatment. Generalization probe production accuracy improved significantly from baseline to immediately posttreatment and 2 weeks posttreatment.

Improvement in production of trained conversational scripts following 1 and 2 hr of treatment can be documented in individuals with poststroke aphasia. These results provide estimates for the effects of 1 and 2 hr of conversational script training that can be used in future dosage manipulations.

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.28339925.